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Global startup comp coming to NZ

Auckland has been selected as one of 36 global startup ‘hubs’ to be visited by judges in a global ‘Entrepreneur Idol’ competition.

The contest, Startup World, is open to startups launched within the last two years. Entrants must have a demonstrable product or service, and have received less than US$2 million in funding.

Judging will be based on how innovative or disruptive the idea is, how scalable the technology is, how innovative the pitch is, and the potential global impact.

Regional winners will receive a subsidised flight to the Startup World grand final in San Francisco; each will have a chance to pitch to a panel of expert judges and venture capitalists, and the ultimate winner will receive a three-month incubation period at i/o Ventures worth US$30,000.

"Much like competing on American Idol, selling a business idea requires raw talent, mastery of the material, and command performance,” a post on the Startup World website reads.

"While most media is currently focusing on Silicon Valley, we want to shine a light on entrepreneurs in emerging markets.”

Applications will open soon – check out the Startup World website here, or sign up for updates from their Facebook page.